It’s National Stress Awareness Day!
With hectic schedules full of work, friends, and family, it’s easy to become downtrodden and feel the effects of stress. Thankfully, there is a wealth of information on how to reduce stress and become a happier, healthier you!
Did you know that scientists didn’t actually identify the response known as “stress” until the 1950s? It’s hard to believe, but up until then, there was no word for feelings of crisis and strain. We have Austrian-Canadian scientist, Hans Selye, to thank for the word!
Here are some tips on how you can quickly and easily ease the symptoms of stress:
- Exercise – Any type of movement will increase endorphins that naturally lift your spirit. It does not have to be a run, but get off the couch and get moving!
- Music – Listening to calming music is proven to lower the hormone cortisol, which is often linked to stress. So download some Beethoven and put those headphones on!
- Phone a friend – Research proves that just being able to talk about the issue bothering you is enough to reduce your level of stress. The support and fresh perspective you get from a friend is incredibly valuable!
- Healthy eating – It may seem tempting to go for a Snickers bar when stressed out, but it’s actually much better to reach for vegetables and fish instead! Fish that are high in omega 3 fatty acids can help lower hormones that cause stress.
- Laughter – Laughing is often the best medicine! Even if you fake a laugh, it can help improve your mood. So search the comedy section of Netflix and give those abs a workout!
- Sleep – Are you getting 7 to 8 hours of sleep a night? If not, lack of sleep could be contributing to your high stress level. Sleep is our body’s way of recovering, so give it time to heal itself!
7. Bank with a credit union – Okay, so maybe this is not scientifically proven, but we’re firm believers that AmeriChoice can make your banking experience simple, fast, and enjoyable. Don’t let hidden fees from a checking account or a difficult loan application get you stressed out! AmeriChoice is here for you.
Make sure to try each of these tips to reduce your stress level, and you’ll be on your way to a new and improved you!